The dazzle in germ cell differentiation

Abstract

Embryonic stem cells have demonstrated the capacity to differentiate into germ cells in vitro. Until recently, the molecular basis of early post-meiotic germ cell development was largely unknown. Now, two reports including one published here recently, have demonstrated the significant contribution of Dazl in the differentiation of embryonic stem cells into pre- and post-meiotic germ cells. Although factors that Dazl influences during this process have been identified, the underlying mechanisms warrant future studies.